“It is crucial that authorities and civil society work together to support the reconstruction of the affected areas and ensure the protection of everyone – both people and animals,” highlighted the UGT in a statement sent to newsrooms, expressing solidarity with the victims of the fires ravaging the country and extending “deep condolences to the families of those who lost their lives fighting the blazes.”
The union reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the interests of workers, victims, and the “heroes of this tragedy,” emphasizing “the courage and sacrifice of professional and volunteer firefighters, security forces, and all citizens who join this fight.”
“The loss of homes and heritage, often built through a lifetime of hard work, is a profound wound that affects the heart of our community,” it stressed.
Continental Portugal has been affected by multiple large-scale rural fires since July, primarily in the Northern and Central regions.
The fires have resulted in three fatalities, including a firefighter, as well as several injuries, some serious, and have completely or partially destroyed primary and secondary residences, as well as agricultural and livestock farms and forested areas.
Portugal activated the European Civil Protection Mechanism, under which it has access to two Fire Boss planes and a Super Puma helicopter, with the arrival of two Canadair planes expected today.
According to provisional official data, approximately 234 thousand hectares have burned in the country as of August 22, with more than 53 thousand hectares burned in the fire that started in Arganil.
